High Stakes in Udon Thani: Thaksin, Pheu Thai Grapple with Rising People’s Party

[snoop1130]

 

The battle for control in Udon Thani is heightening ahead of the forthcoming Provincial Administrative Organisation (PAO) chief election. The spotlight is firmly trained on former Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, aligned with the ruling Pheu Thai Party, as he vies for traction against the surging challenge from the People's Party.

 

Coming up on November 24th, the election underscores a key standoff between Pheu Thai's candidate, Sarawut Petchpanomporn, and his opponent from People's Party, Kanisorn Khurirangon. This face-off is widely viewed as a litmus test for the political potency of Thaksin's Pheu Thai Party, significantly so after his daughter took on the mantle of Prime Minister only three months ago.

 

However, the People's Party’s campaign is not devoid of political heavyweights. Notable figures include Progressive Movement leader Thanathorn Juangroongruangkit and former Move Forward leader Pita Limjaroenrat. The fledgling party has its eyes set on improving their telecommunications in local elections, where it has routinely been overshadowed by more established parties like the Pheu Thai.

 

 

One vital shift observed in Thaksin’s campaign strategy involves public criticism of the People's Party stance on modifying Article 112, the lese majeste law. This tactical move paints Pheu Thai in a markedly more conservative hue and signals a possible repositioning on their defaulted political spectrum.

 

This change, coming alongside whispers of a smoother relationship between Thaksin and military top brass post-Pheu Thai's successful government formation last year, augments the election implications manifold.

 

The traditional backdrop of Udon Thani, a strong redoubt for Pheu Thai’s "red-shirt" supporters, has now turned into a political battleground. Election outcomes here could offer a substantial insight into Pheu Thai's abilities to retain its grip on local politics whilst embracing a more conservative ethos.

 

File photo for reference only

 

-- 2024-11-18

 

 

[Gottfrid]

Let´s hope they put him in the gutter.